Why isn’t Pikachu the first Pokémon?

Why isn’t Pikachu the first Pokémon?

The topic of Pikachu’s position as the first Pokémon is a subject of debate among Pokémon enthusiasts. Pikachu, the iconic yellow rodent with electric powers, has become a cultural phenomenon and is widely recognized as the face of the franchise. However, Pikachu was not the first Pokémon created, and this article aims to provide a comprehensive answer to this question.

Origins of the First Pokémon

In an interview with Yomiuri, Atsuko Nishida, a graphic and character designer, shared that she created the original designs of Pikachu in Pokémon Red and Green to be based on a squirrel, not a mouse. However, Pikachu was not the first Pokémon created. In fact, Rhydon, a Rock/Ground-type Pokémon, was the first Pokémon designed and developed by Satoshi Tajiri, the founder of Game Freak, and Ken Sugimori, a renowned anime and manga artist.

First Pokémon Design

The first Pokémon design was Rhydon, a powerful and rugged-looking Pokémon with a rhino-like body. Sugimori and Tajiri created Rhydon to be the first Pokémon due to its versatility and ability to appeal to a wide range of audiences. Rhydon’s design was influenced by dinosaurs, with its rhino-like body and powerful tail.

Early Concept Art

Sugimori and Tajiri’s concept art for Rhydon revealed a more primitive and prehistoric appearance, with a spiky shell on its back and a more muscular build. This design was refined over time, with the final version featuring a more streamlined and athletic build.

Why Pikachu Became the First

So, why didn’t Pikachu become the first Pokémon? The reason is that Pikachu’s design was initially meant to be an evolved form of another Pokémon, Rattata. Pikachu’s original design was a Rattata with a more mature and adult appearance. However, Sugimori and Tajiri decided to make Pikachu a standalone species, with its unique electric powers and lovable personality.

Evolutionary Lineage

Pikachu’s evolutionary lineage is interesting, as it evolves from Rattata at level 15, and then from Raichu using a Thunder Stone. Raichu is Pikachu’s evolved form, which was also influenced by the Japanese folklore of foxes and raccoon dogs.

Comparison with Rhydon

Here is a comparison between Rhydon and Pikachu’s characteristics:

Conclusion

In conclusion, Pikachu was not the first Pokémon designed, and its place as the face of the franchise is largely due to its unique electric powers, lovable personality, and cute appearance. Rhydon, the first Pokémon designed, was a Rock/Ground-type with a rhino-like body and powerful tail. The early concept art for Rhydon revealed a more primitive and prehistoric appearance, which was refined over time to become the Pokémon we know today.

Additional Reading

• The Official Pokémon Wiki: Rhydon
• IGN: Pikachu’s Origins Revealed
• Pokémon: The Art of the Animation Book

By understanding the early concept art, design inspirations, and evolutionary lineages of Pikachu and Rhydon, we can appreciate the history and development of these iconic Pokémon and their roles in the franchise.